Al Maha Desert Resort – Dubai

Deep in the Arabian desert, nestled among rolling sand dunes, the odd oasis watering hole as well, is the extraordinary five star resort called Al Maha. This place represents the perfect amalgam of understated luxury, Arabian hospitality and environmental sustainability. Oh and its so secluded, so off the beaten track, and way way out of any body’s way, that privacy is guaranteed. Bliss…

Al Maha Baby Oryx in the manger: f/4.5; Exposure 1/750sec

Al Maha Baby Oryx in the manger: f/4.5; Exposure 1/750sec

The Dubai Desert Nature Reserve Al Maha lays within has been dedicated to preserving the flora and fauna of the UAE. Based around the site of an ancient oasis, Al Maha (which means Arabian Oryx) is home to healthy and well-numbered indiginous animals such as hedgehogs, gazelles, oryx, falcons and owl.

Camel Trek into the Dubai Desert Reserve Mr H & our guide: f/2.8; 1/125sec

Camel Trek into the Dubai Desert Reserve Mr H & our guide: f/2.8; 1/125sec

Resembling a Bedouin encampment, this hideaway offers personalised experiences of the region’s history and geography, all let it be known, in absolute comfort and style. Arabian adventures are conducted through expert, multilingual guides who are appointed to each guest (most if not all guests are, truth be told, here as couples). Indeed each couple is assigned their own guide upon check-in. Ours was the South African-born Jacques whose pleasure it was to accompany us on wildlife drives, horse and camel riding, nature walks, desert safaris, and archery lessons.

Al Maha Owl and Falcon Talk at desert dawn: f/2.8; Exposure 1/60sec

Al Maha Owl and Falcon Talk at desert dawn: f/2.8; Exposure 1/60sec

Archery, falconry and camel trekking into the sunset aside, we Hartleys would crave each evening the pure decadence of our bedouin suite where intrusions were guaranteed not to occur, gazelles frollick just yonder, and the private temperature-controlled swimming pool called out to us. Come hither! Cool off here! Desert magic at its finest.

Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa Couples Retreat: f/3.2; Exposure 1/60sec

Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa Couples Retreat: f/3.2; Exposure 1/60sec

 

 

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